Whether it is sun spots, age spots, freckles, sun damage, or melasma – skin pigmentation is a common issue. Imperfections can be beautiful, but if not addressed appropriately, those tiny, brown spots adorning your cheeks or nose can become a real problem. Hyperpigmentation is usually harmless. However, it may also indicate an underlying medical condition.
If you developed these spots due to a lack of proper skincare, you could take steps to fade them. You can also use natural methods instead of resorting to laser treatment. Scroll down to know everything about home remedies for skin pigmentation and how to reduce its appearance gradually.
What Is Skin Pigmentation?
Pigmentation is discoloration of the skin. This common problem in which you develop dark patches on your skin is faced by both men and women. It is caused by excess melanin – the pigment that gives you your natural skin tone. When this pigment forms a deposit in the skin, it causes pigmentation.
Types Of Skin Pigmentation
Age Spots Or Solar Lentiginosis (Liver Spots): These are the most common type of skin pigmentation and are formed due to sun damage. They are found in the areas frequently exposed to the sun.
Melasma Or Chloasma: This is characterized by spots similar to age spots but covering a large area on the skin. These spots mostly appear due to hormonal changes. For instance, during pregnancy, the hormones may trigger the overproduction of melanin and cause skin darkening.
Freckles (Ephelides): These are caused by sun exposure. They appear as tiny dots and specks on your face and shoulder areas.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): It is a condition in which your skin develops marks or spots as a result of an injury, burns, acne, or aggressive chemical treatment. It is also called hypopigmentation.
Home Remedies For Pigmentation And Dark Spots
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains polyphenolic compounds that offer various health benefits. These compounds may also be beneficial for the skin. Anecdotal evidence suggests that ACV may be beneficial in managing Pigmentation And Dark Spots, other skin issues. However, there is no scientific proof to prove these effects.
How To Use: Mix a tablespoon each of apple cider vinegar and water in a container (take equal parts of both depending on the treatment area). Dip a cotton swab into the mixture and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 3 minutes or until it dries completely. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat twice daily.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains an active ingredient called aloin that has skin lightening properties.
How To Use: Mix 2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel and 1 teaspoon of honey in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. Apply it to the affected area and let it dry. Wash with lukewarm water.
3. Green Tea
Tyrosinase is an enzyme found in your body that is responsible for pigmentation. Green tea extracts have been found to inhibit mushroom tyrosinase (in vitro), which may have a depigmenting effect. However, more studies are required to establish its efficacy.
How To Use: Steep a green tea bag in a cup of hot water and wait for it to cool down. Rub the tea bag on the affected area. Repeat this treatment twice daily.
4. Lemon
Lemon is considered one of the effective home remedies for skin pigmentation. Lemon is a potent bleaching agent and has skin lightening properties. It is used in many skin lightening formulations, such as Lucederm, Meladerm, and Skin Bright. However, lemon juice can irritate sensitive skin, so do a patch test on your arm before using it. Also, make sure to apply sunscreen after using this remedy because lemon juice can make your skin photosensitive.
How To Use: Mix a tablespoon of diluted lemon juice with a teaspoon of organic honey. Apply the mixture on the affected area and wait for 15 minutes before washing it off with lukewarm water.
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